Due to recent deliberate and repeated acts of vandalism, the swings at Dickens Walk have had to be removed, in the interests of public safety.

The damage seems to have been caused by dogs biting and pulling on the swing seats. Replacing the swings costs Newbury Town Council in the region of £400 each time. The public purse cannot sustain these ongoing costs indefinitely.

If anyone has any information or has witnessed these incidents please contact Newbury Town Council on 01635 35486. Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 (free from a fixed line, mobile charges may vary).

Cllr Julian Swift-Hook, Leader of the Council said, “I am appalled that this valuable community facility is being repeatedly vandalised. Children have now been left with no swings to play on at Dickens Walk until this is resolved. I urge anyone with information to come forward”.